AAU National Championship Coverage: Names to Check Out

Wave 3 is about to kick off, and my must-watch list just keeps growing. All season long, I've been in the gyms—watching, tracking, and taking names. Now, some of these athletes will step onto the AAU stage one more time, while others gear up for the final push in Texas.   ‼️<a href="https://prepdig.com/subscribe/">Subscribe</a> to Prep Dig using code: digdakotas30   What makes these players stand out isn't just their skill—it's their high volleyball IQ, strong positional instincts, and leadership both on and off the court. They bring energy, composure, and elite-level body language, showing up not just as impact players, but as teammates every coach wants in their program.   The 17s Division is stacked with talent—some already committed, others still searching for the perfect fit. But all of them are ready to make a statement. Here are a few of my top preview picks—athletes who are putting in the work, performing at a high level, and just might be the missing piece to a college program.   Check them out—you'll want these names on your radar.    [player_tooltip player_id='732313' first='Karlie' last='Wagner'] is the kind of outside hitter who brings instant energy and impact the moment she steps on the court. A true six-rotation player, she hustles in every phase of the game—whether she's chasing down a ball in the back row or swinging for the kill at the pin.   Her leadership is felt just as much as her skill. She communicates with confidence, plays with grit, and sets the tone for her team with effort and consistency. Karlie's swing is strong, her reads are sharp, and her court awareness is next level.   She's the kind of player who doesn't just show up—she takes over.   Get to her court and check her out—you'll see what I mean. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='736589' first='Emma' last='Gorvin'] is the kind of DS/Libero who makes plays that turn heads—and momentum. She reads the court like a veteran, anticipates well, and isn't afraid to hit the floor to keep the ball alive. Her platform is clean, her pursuit is relentless, and she brings a steady presence to the back row.   Emma communicates with purpose and plays with grit—always one step ahead and locked in on the next touch. She may not always be the loudest voice in the gym, but her game speaks volumes.   Watch her work the back row—she's the glue every team needs. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='468103' first='Olivia' last='Terhune'] is the kind of middle hitter who thrives in the fast-paced moments at the net. Her quick feet and lateral speed allow her to close blocks and transition into the attack with ease. She's constantly on the move, reading the setter, and getting up fast for quicks, slides, and tight balls.   She brings energy, precision, and a competitive edge that makes her a problem for opposing hitters. Olivia doesn't just play the middle—she owns it.   If you're watching front-row action, keep your eyes on her—she covers ground like few can. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='765217' first='Madilyn' last='Dinges'] is the kind of middle blocker who makes her presence known early—and often. She's quick off the floor, disciplined in her positioning, and brings a physical presence that forces hitters to adjust. Her timing on the block is sharp, and when she connects on a swing, it's with power and precision.   Madilyn plays with purpose and doesn't take a single rep off. She competes hard, runs the floor with urgency, and sets the tone at the net.   Catch her in action—she's a wall on defense and a force in transition. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='725053' first='Katelyn' last='Posl'] is the kind of middle/right side who just keeps getting better—and this club season proved it. She's grown stronger, more confident, and more dominant as the year has gone on. Whether she's putting up a solid block or finding a kill on the right, her presence is felt.   She brings versatility to the front row and adapts quickly in system and out. Katelyn plays with grit, competes hard, and continues to level up every time she steps on the court.   She's trending up—get eyes on her now while she's still rising. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='391419' first='Meadow' last='Zimpel'] is the kind of setter college coaches dream about. She's fast, smart, and fully in control of her offense. Meadow runs every route with precision—quick sets, tempo balls, back sets—you name it. Her ability to read the block and manipulate defenders is next-level.   What truly separates her is her connection with her hitters. The timing, trust, and chemistry she brings to the court might be the strongest I've seen all season. She makes her team better—every single touch.   If you're a coach, do yourself a favor and get to her court—you'll see exactly why she stands out. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='765216' first='Ellie' last='Thury'] is the kind of outside hitter who commands attention with every swing. She attacks with power and precision from all areas of the court—front row or back—and plays with a fierce competitive edge that fuels her team.   Ellie's approach is smooth and explosive, and she's not afraid to take the big swings when it counts. Beyond her offensive firepower, she's solid in serve receive and backs it up with hustle and smart court awareness.   Keep your eyes on Ellie—she's the kind of player who can change the game in a heartbeat. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     Elin Schoendhard is the kind of middle blocker who controls the net with precision and power. Her timing on quick sets is sharp, and she moves fluidly to close blocks and seal off angles for hitters.   Elin's presence disrupts offenses and opens up opportunities for her team to capitalize. She plays with a competitive edge and a relentless work ethic that makes her a consistent threat on both offense and defense.   Watch her dominate the middle—she's the anchor every team needs at the net. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='207306' first='Audrey' last='Johnson'] is the kind of DS/Libero who brings stability and energy every time she steps on the court. Her platform is rock solid, and she consistently delivers clean passes that keep the offense flowing smoothly.   Audrey's hustle and anticipation allow her to track down tough digs and keep rallies alive. She plays with quiet confidence and a competitive fire that lifts her team when it matters most.   Watch how Audrey controls the backcourt—she's the steady force every team relies on. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas     [player_tooltip player_id='261233' first='Ellie' last='Friedrichs'] is a dynamic outside hitter who consistently brings the heat. Whether it's a powerful cross-court swing or a smart tip over the block, she knows how to score from every angle.   Her intensity never drops—Ellie competes hard in serve receive, digs, and transition. She's a well-rounded player who makes an impact in all six rotations, keeping opponents on their toes.   Don't miss watching Ellie in action—she's the spark that can ignite her team's offense. ~Theresa @prepdigdakotas    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you to all my readers for making this journey possible. My goal has always been simple—to shine a light on athletes at every level, from Division I to NAIA, and give them a platform to keep chasing their love for the game. Every player deserves a shot, and I'm honored to help tell their stories.</h2>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Please help us continue to grow this positive platform for players by spreading the word and encouraging your friends to subscribe at <a href="https://prepdig.com/">PrepDig.com.</a> With your support, we can create unforgettable memories and experiences!</h2>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">This journey is created by the village—athletes, coaches, families, and subscribers.</h4>   <h4 class="wp-block-heading">Thank you for making it all possible! ~ Theresa Hickman @prepdigdakotas</h4>

Wave 3 is about to kick off, and my must-watch list just keeps growing. All season long, I've been in the gyms—watching, tracking, and taking names. Now, some of these athletes will step onto the AAU stage one more time, while others gear up for the final push in Texas.